We'd like to introduce our blog readers to the newest addition to our Family:

the TV stand.

Nate used not one single nail on this project. He's quite the skilled woodworker.

We've titled the table The $1,000 TV Stand, as the purchases of some necessary tools were required for completion.

Soon after construction, we ventured on our cross-country road trip to PA and IN to visit the Knoebels and Smiths.

We discovered that Adam has been using some shady potty-training tactics with Jack

Grammy's surgery was successful, but watching her endure the aftermath was painful! Nevertheless, we're sooo excited for her!

Soon after, we drove 10+ hours to Indiana. We received some terrific news only 1 hour prior to our arrival that Silas had gotten a job! Not just any job, mind you, but an awesome one managing the assembly of diabetic kits! Wecelebrated every day we were there by going out to dinner.

My personal favorite was Skyline - moment of silence for all you OCMers.

Ana also brought her work home.

We enjoyed a fabulous Thanksgiving dinner. Nate made a lemon meringue pie from scratch. Ana made everything else. Oh, Ana's friend made rolls and potatoes...and Ana made everything else. Oh, Linda made a delicious broccoli casserole, but didn't serve it until the next day...and Ana made everything else.

Which brings me to the biggest reunion of our trip:We saw Linda and Heather!!!

Linda is my Dad's sister and Heather is her daughter...so my Aunt and cousin.

I haven't seen my Aunt since I was 13. We'd talking about getting together for so long; it was great to finally catch up and reminisce.

Here are all the kids:

It was sad to say goodbye, but great to know that the Smith family can now make online purchases guilt-free. Congrats again, Silas.

After returning to PA, the Knoebel fam met Santa Claus at the mall. We waited in a line that was surprisingly not too long. As soon as the family in front of us exited Santa's lap, Edie RACED up to him and screamed, "I WANT A BALL!!!" Well, Santa didn't know what to think because he usually gets to ask first. So then, they didn't really have much to say.

And Allison, well, she didn't want anything, because she's just perfect.

Edie's most favorite activity of our entire trip was riding the merry-go-round with Grandpa. He took her twice.

(Sorry, you'll have to watch this video while laying down - I took the video sideways.)

scarfing down worm-filled cupcakes

(An American Family)

Nate's Work Party

Ian and Edie bond over candy

candy and crafts at SSCI

Clifford visits Stoneham Library

How we get around town when Nate takes the double stroller to work(in the trunk).

Edie and Nora

Edie's swoons and stares at Clifford's signature in her book while Nora screams with delight. You should've seen the other kids too! Clifford is such a dreamboat. Can you blame them?

FYIThis year I made:1. Tutus2. Flowers for Edie's hair3. Allison's pirate shirt, eye patch, belt, and shoes4. Nate's mustard cap5. An i love N8 shirt, which I'll have to post later(Look Ana, I can be crafty too)

Nate made his own mustard costume - AWESOME!!!The coolest thing is, he made it at the church, 20 minutes before the party started! He's such an engineer!

Dinky Nomie O., the beloved lifelong companion of Edith Jane Knoebel, died Saturday, October 11, 2008. Formerly known as binky, Dinky Nomie O. received its new, endearing title nearly one year after beginning its devoted relationship with Edie.Dinky and Edie spent every day together. Not a nap or night went by that Dinky did not selflessly aid its companion drift to sleep. Dinky spent most of its life in Edie's mouth, as well as some occasional moments on the floor and other various germ-infested locations. Dinky served as a friend, bribe, and comforter.You will be missed.

View here for highlights from the funeral:

Edie seems to have recovered quickly. We thought nights would be a nightmare. But, she has taken the loss like a man. She hasn't even turned to fingers or thumbs.

She has asked about what the binky will grow into. I think she's hoping for a binky tree.